Tube well irrigation is a popular irrigation method in India. The first tube well operated in Uttar Pradesh, India, in 1930. It gained even more popularity during the 1960s Indian Green Revolution.
This simple and effective irrigation system has emerged as one of the most reliable and cost-effective solutions for farmers worldwide.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about tube well irrigation systems, including their benefits, installation process, maintenance requirements, and how they compare to traditional wells.
What Is Tube Well Irrigation?
Tube wells are deep water extraction mechanisms using narrow-diameter pipes (most of the time, galvanized iron casing pipes).
These pipes or tubes are drilled deep underground, typically 50 to 200 feet, to reach underground aquifers for accessing water.
Tube well irrigation is revolutionizing farming practices, particularly where there is a scarcity of surface water sources. It has helped countries like India achieve their farming goals by enabling farmers to maintain consistent crop production regardless of seasonal variations in rainfall or surface water availability.
These systems consist of several key components working together to deliver water efficiently to agricultural fields. The main structure includes a narrow tube or pipe inserted into a drilled hole, a pump mechanism (either manual or electric), and a distribution system that carries water to the irrigation network.
Types of Tube Well Irrigation
Shallow Tube Well
Shallow tube wells are typically less than 15 to 20 meters deep. These wells are easy to install and maintain.
The drilling process is simpler, and the equipment required is less sophisticated compared to deep tube wells.
The pumping mechanism for shallow tube wells often includes centrifugal pumps or even manual hand pumps in some cases.
These wells are suited for regions with consistent groundwater levels and can provide adequate water supply for small to medium-sized agricultural operations.
Deep Tube Well
As the name suggests, these are deep tube wells that reach around 50–200 feet or more below the surface to access water.
The advantage of deep tube wells lies in their ability to access more stable and abundant water sources. Deep aquifers are typically less affected by seasonal variations and surface contamination, providing a more reliable water supply throughout the year.
However, installation requires more advanced drilling equipment and techniques, and the pumping requirements are more energy-intensive—making it a costlier option.
Artesian Tube Well
In this type of tube well, there is no need to install any pump to extract water. Artesian tube wells are special systems that tap into confined aquifers where water is under pressure, causing it to rise to the surface without the need for pumping.
When the tube reaches the aquifer, water rises naturally due to hydrostatic pressure—sometimes even flowing to the surface without pumping. These systems are highly efficient and cost-effective to operate, though they are only available in specific geological conditions.
Advantages of Tube Well Irrigation Systems
Consistency and Reliability
Tube well irrigation provides you with a consistent water supply because groundwater availability is not dependent on seasons, as surface water sources often dry out in the dry season.
This consistent water supply enables multiple cropping seasons per year, significantly increasing agricultural productivity and income.
Water Quality Control
Groundwater undergoes a natural filtration process as it moves through soil and rock layers, which removes many contaminants and impurities.
This improved water quality benefits crop health and reduces the need for water treatment before irrigation.
Cost Effectiveness
The initial investment cost for tube wells is substantial, but they are durable, lasting decades, and provide long-term cost benefits.
The ability to access water directly from underground sources eliminates the need for expensive water transportation or storage systems.
Once installed, tube well systems have relatively low operating costs compared to other irrigation methods.
Control and Flexibility
Tube well irrigation gives you full control over the water supply due to its consistency.
This flexibility is particularly valuable for precision agriculture practices, where water application can be tailored to specific crop needs and soil conditions.
The ability to control irrigation timing also helps optimize nutrient uptake and minimize water waste.
Well v/s Tube Well irrigation: Comprehensive Comparison
Construction and Design Differences
Well and the Tube Well system have significant differences in their construction and design differences.Understanding the exact differences in construction and design between these two systems helps determine which is most suitable.
Traditional Well
A traditional well is typically 3 to 10 feet in diameter and constructed through manual digging or mechanical excavation. The wall is lined with bricks, stones, or concrete rings.
The larger the diameter, the more water the well stores within the structure itself.
Tube Well
A tube well has a diameter of 4 to 8 inches and is created through drilling—eliminating the need for manual labor.
The narrow design reduces construction costs and time while efficiently accessing water from greater depths.
Depth and Water Access
Traditional Well
Water is typically available 20 to 50 feet underground. These wells primarily access shallow aquifers and are more susceptible to seasonal water table fluctuations.
Tube Walls
Tube wells access water from deep underground aquifers, typically 100 to 300 feet or more below the surface.
This depth allows access to larger reserves and more consistent water quality.
Water Yield and Capacity
Traditional Well
Water is only stored within the well walls, which can be helpful during periods of high demand.
However, recharge rates are limited by the surface area of the well bottom and sides in contact with the water-bearing formation.
Tube Well
Tube wells don’t store water within the structure but often provide higher sustained yield rates due to their ability to access multiple water-bearing zones and their efficient design for continuous pumping.
Water Quality and Contamination Risk
Traditional Well
Due to the large diameter and lack of sealing, these wells are more susceptible to surface contamination.
Surface water can more easily enter during heavy rains or flooding, carrying contaminants.
Tube Well
Contrary to the Traditional Well, Tube Wells have proper sealing and a small diameter, preventing surface contamination from entering the system.
Maintenance Requirements
Traditional Well
Often requires regular maintenance and cleaning due to the large diameter. Debris removal, wall repairs, and deepening may be needed.
While inspection is easier, so is the likelihood of contamination.
Tube Well
Due to the closed structure, tube wells require less frequent maintenance.
When needed, however, maintenance often requires specialized equipment. Pump maintenance is typically the main ongoing concern.
Efficiency and Performance
Traditional Well
In hot, arid climates, water levels can drop in traditional wells due to their wide diameter and shallow depth.
This can affect pump performance significantly.
Tube Well
Tube wells maintain consistent performance through seasonal changes.
Their narrow diameter and efficient pump placement improve energy efficiency and provide stable water delivery.
Installation Cost and Time
Traditional Well
Requires manual labor, especially in hard soil. Material costs for lining can be substantial, though equipment needs are relatively basic.
Tube Well
Requires technical expertise and specialized drilling equipment. However, installation is faster and more efficient.
The narrow diameter also reduces material costs for casing.
Last Word…
Tube wells offer a solution to water scarcity while increasing agricultural efficiency and providing cost-effective access to water.
The integration of smart technologies and renewable energy promises to make these systems even more efficient and eco-friendly in the years to come.
With proper planning and implementation, tube well irrigation systems can provide decades of reliable service while supporting productive, sustainable agriculture.
When comparing traditional wells to tube wells, the choice depends on local conditions, such as geology, water table depth, and economic factors.
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